How to set up a Power & Energy business in Bangladesh
We advise developers and investors on power generation, solar and other renewables, energy trading and fuel businesses — from licensing and land to project agreements and financing.
Long-term projects that need firm legal foundations
The energy sector is regulated by the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC), with policy set by the Power Division and the Energy and Mineral Resources Division. Renewable energy is promoted through SREDA, including rooftop solar and net-metering arrangements.
Larger projects usually involve agreements with state counterparties, substantial land, environmental approvals and lender requirements. Smaller energy businesses — solar installers, fuel distributors or energy-efficiency providers — have their own licensing and contractual needs.
Key steps to get started
Company Formation
Incorporate with RJSC and obtain a trade licence, e-TIN and BIN.
Project Structuring
Decide on structure, ownership and investment registration (BIDA, BEZA or other).
Land & Environment
Secure land rights and obtain the Environmental Clearance Certificate from DoE.
Sector Licences
BERC licence for generation, distribution, storage or marketing, as relevant.
Project Agreements
Power purchase, implementation, fuel supply, EPC and O&M agreements.
Financing & Operation
Security documents for lenders, and ongoing regulatory and tariff compliance.
What you are likely to need
Depending on the activity and scale, approvals may include:
- RJSC incorporation & trade licence
- e-TIN & VAT/BIN registration
- BIDA / BEZA investment registration
- BERC licence (generation, distribution, etc.)
- Environmental Clearance Certificate (DoE)
- Land lease or acquisition approvals
- Explosives / petroleum licences (fuel businesses)
- Net-metering approval (rooftop solar)
Key laws & regulators
- Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission Act, 2003
- Electricity Act, 2018
- Sustainable and Renewable Energy Development Authority Act, 2012
- Petroleum Act, 2016
- Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act, 1995
- Public Private Partnership Act, 2015
- Bangladesh Economic Zones Act, 2010
- Regulators: BERC, Power Division, SREDA, DoE
Your legal partner from day one
We advise on the right structure — company, branch, liaison office or joint venture.
We handle name clearance, RJSC incorporation and constitutional documents.
We obtain sector licences, registrations and regulatory approvals.
We support ongoing filings, contracts, employment and disputes.
Frequently asked questions
Can a private company generate and sell electricity?
Yes. Private generation is permitted under licences and agreements with the relevant state entities. We advise on the current procurement and licensing route.
Is rooftop solar allowed for factories and offices?
Yes. Commercial and industrial users can install rooftop solar, and net-metering arrangements may allow surplus power to be exported to the grid.
Do you advise lenders on energy projects?
Yes. We conduct legal due diligence and prepare security and financing documents for lenders as well as sponsors.
Where can I read more about energy disputes?
See our Power & Energy practice-area page, or speak with our team directly.
Speak with our legal team
Tell us about your matter. A Premier Law Services lawyer will review it and advise you on the right next step — in person at our Dhaka chamber or online.